14 South End Road,
Belsize Park,
London,
NW3 2PT
(020) 7435 4938
The ViewLondon Review
With a magnificent beer garden that rivals nearby Hampstead Heath, The Garden Gate is a pub which has flourished into a charismatic, attractive local pub.
The Venue
The muted bustle of Belsize Park is the ideal setting for the Garden Gate, with its largely residential population of Hampstead folk who love to wine and dine. Minutes from Hampstead Heath, this friendly pub is a local gem, with the beer garden its key selling point. However, attention to detail has also been paid to the interior decor. Smooth warm tones of wood make up the majority of the furniture. These are mixed with flashes of quirky, bright antiques to lift the mood of what is a large space. Fresh flowers on every table and not one light the same adds an endearing character to the venue, whilst maintaining a chic veneer. The pub itself is enough of an attraction, but it is the beer garden that is truly a rare delight. Large, spacious and full of lush greenery, it’s a perfect bubble for lazy summer days, with parts of it sheltered for the wetter moments.
The Atmosphere
There’s a sense that there are a lot of regulars in this place, with the staff amiably chatting to customers. The attitude is strictly relaxed, with a combination of ages, couples, families and friends wandering in and out throughout the day and night. With a large screen, this is a classy establishment to enjoy sporting events, and anytime the weather is remotely pleasant, the beer garden is packed and buzzing with Londoners seeking a haven.
The Food
Gastro pub food with a sophisticated edge largely dominates the menu at The Garden Gate. The range of prices for mains is around £7-£13, with a good selection of classics and modern, lighter dishes to suit every palette. Daily specials are also available.
The Drink
On tap, the average selection of beers are offered, as well as a few different options such as Franziskaner and Sierra Nevada for £3-£4 a pint. They also pride themselves on providing punters with a good choice of traditional English ales. The wine is better than your typical boozer, with the added bonus of cheaper bottles on Tuesdays to please the after-work crowd.
The Last Week
The Garden Gate is a gem of a pub, with the beer garden alone enough to attract any north Londoner away from the delights of the Heath.
Garden Gate has been reviewed by 4 users